Politicians in Memphis are embroiled in heated debates surrounding the pollution concerns stemming from the xAI Colossus supercomputer. The NAACP and the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) are considering legal action against xAI over air pollution concerns caused by its gas-powered turbines. Now, environmental groups are also raising alarms about water pollutants associated with the supercomputer.
Recent third-party air quality tests conducted in downtown Memphis, Whitehaven, and Boxtown, near xAI’s site, revealed that levels of 10 pollutants were within safe limits. However, the SELC, representing the NAACP, criticized the omission of ozone from the tests and the placement of monitors in locations that did not adhere to EPA guidelines.
Local opposition has grown, with State Representative Justin J. Pearson emphasizing the importance of clean air, water, and soil for the community. Concerns have shifted to the Memphis aquifer, with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation holding a virtual meeting to address xAI’s wastewater facility.
Activist Pamela Moses accused xAI of exploiting the community instead of uplifting it, citing pollution, secrecy, and broken promises. xAI’s $80 million Grey Water facility and the Colossus Water Recycle Facility, a collaboration with the Tennessee Valley Authority and Nucor Steel, aim to address water concerns and reduce strain on the aquifer.
Bobby White of the Greater Memphis Chamber highlighted the significant impact of the water recycling project in saving billions of gallons of water annually. As the debates surrounding xAI’s supercomputer continue, the balance between economic benefits and environmental justice remains unresolved. The company’s efforts to address pollution and water concerns will play a crucial role in shaping its relationship with Memphis in the future.